Pro Tour Insights with Chris Cali: A Deep Dive into Pickleball’s Rising Stars and Key Moments
The Johnkew Podcast Welcomes 'Sorry Not Sorry' Host Chris Cali for an Unmissable Recap of Major League Pickleball Action
Introduction:
In a vibrant and insightful episode of the Johnkew Podcast, co-host John Kew welcomed Chris Cali, the dynamic voice behind the popular "Sorry Not Sorry" podcast, to discuss the latest happenings in the world of Major League Pickleball (MLP). With enthusiasm and expertise, Chris brought listeners up to speed on the top teams, standout players, and unforgettable moments from recent tournaments. This episode, filled with strategic insights and entertaining banter, is a must-listen for any pickleball aficionado.
1. Pro Tour Recap with Chris Cali (Sorry Not Sorry)
7:02, Pro Tour Recap
Chris Cali joins the Johnkew Podcast, bringing his deep knowledge of the pro tour to the table. As a key figure in the pickleball community, Chris's presence was a treat for listeners who rely on his recaps to stay informed. In this segment, Chris dives into the current landscape of professional pickleball, discussing top teams like the St. Louis Shock and their dominance in the league. He also sheds light on the strategic advantages teams gain through standings and rankings, providing valuable insights into the nuances that can make or break a team’s success.
2. MLP Team Rankings and Standings: Who's on Top?
9:02, MLP Team Rankings and Standings
Chris Cali and John Kew explore the current MLP team standings, focusing on the top contenders such as the St. Louis Shock, Dallas Flash, and Texas Ranchers. Chris emphasizes the importance of measuring standings based on points per game rather than total points, highlighting the significant gap between the top six teams and the rest of the league. The discussion also touches on the strategic benefits of securing a top-two spot, which guarantees a crucial bye and the ability to dictate the flow of the playoffs.
3. New Jersey Fives: The Dark Horse with Potential
10:03, New Jersey Fives
In this segment, Chris Cali discusses the New Jersey Fives, a team that has played the least number of games but holds the most potential to climb the ranks. With 14 games left, compared to the 5 games remaining for the current top three teams, the Fives are in a strong position to make a late surge. Chris breaks down their gameplay and the advantages they hold, positioning them as a team to watch in the coming weeks.
4. Ben and Colin Johns: MLP’s Struggling Duo
12:38, Ben and Colin Johns
The conversation shifts to Ben and Colin Johns of the Carolina Pickleball Club, who are facing a tough season in MLP. Chris offers a candid analysis of their performance, particularly Colin's struggles, and how it might be affecting the team’s overall dynamics. Despite Ben’s usual dominance in the sport, MLP’s unique format and the chemistry it demands seem to be posing challenges for the brothers, leading to a lower-than-expected ranking.
5. The Art of the Body Bag: Jay Devilliers vs. James Ignatowich
16:00, Jay Devilliers vs. James Ignatowich
Chris Cali revisits one of the most talked-about moments from the Grand Rapids event: Jay Devilliers’ attempted body bag on James Ignatowich. This aggressive move, though not successful, sparked excitement and controversy alike. Chris and John discuss the strategy behind such a bold play and how it reflects the growing intensity and competitiveness within the sport. The segment also touches on Anna Leigh Waters’ response in Salt Lake City, where she executed a perfect return body bag, adding another layer to this on-court rivalry.
6. Zane Navratil’s Nasty Nelson: A Risky Yet Rewarding Play
20:06, Zane Navratil’s Nasty Nelson
Zane Navratil made headlines with his audacious Nasty Nelson, a rare and risky move that paid off during a blowout match. Chris Cali highlights the precision and skill required to pull off such a shot, especially in a high-stakes environment like MLP. The segment captures the excitement of witnessing such a play in a professional setting and discusses the broader implications of aggressive tactics in the sport.
7. Jay Devilliers’ Tweener Magic: A Top 10 Moment on SportsCenter
21:16, Jay Devilliers’ Tweener Magic
Closing the episode, Chris and John marvel at Jay Devilliers’ incredible tweener shot, which secured the number five spot on SportsCenter’s Top 10. This extraordinary play, where Jay managed to return a powerful overhead with a between-the-legs shot that landed perfectly on the line, epitomizes the athleticism and creativity that are elevating pickleball to new heights. The hosts debate whether such a move should have ranked even higher on the list, given its sheer brilliance.
This episode of the Johnkew Podcast, featuring Chris Cali, is an exhilarating deep dive into the latest and greatest in Major League Pickleball. With its blend of expert analysis and entertaining highlights, it’s a must-listen for anyone passionate about the sport.
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